With the rise of digital media, writing as a career has become more accessible. The financial rewards of writing may not come easily, but with persistence, hard work and talent, one can earn a sustainable income. This article will explore the various avenues available to UK writers and provide examples of successful writers in each field.
- Traditional publishing
Publishing a book with a traditional publisher is still the most significant way for a writer to earn income. Advances for new writers can vary from a few hundred pounds to six-figure sums. Advance payments are often split, with half paid on signing the contract and the other half paid on publication. Royalties are paid after the publisher recoups their costs from sales, usually between 10% and 15% of the cover price of each book sold.
J.K. Rowling has achieved great success in traditional publishing. Her Harry Potter series has sold over 600 million copies worldwide. She has an estimated net worth of £820 million. Rowling’s final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, sold 15 million copies in the first 24 hours of release! (Deathly Hallows shattered sales records upon release, surpassing marks set by previous titles of the Harry Potter series. It holds the Guinness World Record for most novels sold within 24 hours of release, with 8.3 million sold in the US and 2.65 million in the UK.) - Self-publishing
Self-publishing has become more popular in recent years, as it allows authors to bypass traditional publishing routes and keep more of the earnings. The growing prevalence of digital books has made it easier and cheaper to publish independently. Self-published authors can earn royalties of between 40% and 60% on the sale of a single book.
Mark Dawson is one of the most successful self-published authors in the world. He has sold over two million copies of his books, allowing him to quit his job as a lawyer to write full-time. Dawson’s self-publishing business has grown to include a team of employees, and he now teaches other writers how to achieve similar success. - Freelance writing
Freelance writing covers a range of disciplines, including journalism, copywriting and content creation. Freelance writers can earn different fees, from hourly to per-word rates or project fees. Freelancers must also factor in their overheads, such as tax, insurance and office expenses.
Zoe Beaty is a freelance writer who has written for publications such as The Guardian, Vice and Dazed. Beaty’s income varies depending on her projects, with some months busier than others. She earns between £25,000 and £35,000 per year. - Blogging
Blogging has become a popular source of income, with bloggers making money from advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored content and product sales. Successful bloggers can earn six-figure sums, although it takes time and dedication to achieve this level of success.
Blogger Rosie Chappel writes about sustainable living on her blog, Eco Warrior Princess. Chappel’s income varies, but she has said that she can earn up to £5,000 per month. - Scriptwriting
Scriptwriting is highly competitive, and writers often work on spec (without payment) to secure commissions. Scriptwriters can earn fees ranging from a few hundred pounds to six-figure sums for film and television projects.
Russell T. Davies is a successful scriptwriter who has written for Doctor Who and Queer as Folk. Davies’ success with these shows has earned him both international recognition and a substantial net worth.
So it is possible, with talent, determination, hard work and a bit of hustling and networking, to make a good income from writing in the UK.
